Wijsheid en Schoonheid uit China by Henri Borel

Description

Wijsheid en Schoonheid uit China by Henri Borel is a reflective work blending travel narrative and ethnography, likely written in the late 19th century. The text explores Chinese culture and aesthetics through the author’s personal experiences and observations made during his time in China, celebrating its beauty and wisdom. It contrasts the author’s Western perceptions with his appreciation for Chinese customs, artistry, and philosophy. At the start of the work, Borel shares his initial love for China, describing the breathtaking landscapes and the elegance of its people, which he finds deeply soothing compared to Western bourgeois culture. He expresses admiration for the aesthetic sense of the Chinese, noting their reverent treatment of aesthetic objects and their graceful demeanor. The narrative unfolds with vivid imagery of the land and its inhabitants, illustrating Borel’s enchantment with the culture’s profound simplicity and wisdom. He reflects on poignant encounters that reveal the Chinese people’s relationship with beauty, nature, and even death, setting up a deeper exploration of their cultural values and societal norms throughout the book. (This is an automatically generated summary.)